| Rye Grass Window Boxes |
From "Ask DIY"
episode ADI-208 |
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Q: I'm an inexperienced gardener but I want to learn. Do you have any simple projects that could get me started?
A: (Jessie Mack Burns, Ask DIY Gardening Expert) Why not try a rye grass window box? Winter Rye seeds will grow indoors or out, so this box is a good starter project. All you need to do is put a layer of gravel for drainage at the bottom of a trough planter, or window box. Make sure you get a window box with a drainage tray to take care of excess water. Next, fill the trough with good potting soil, and sprinkle an even layer of rye grass seeds over the top. Then lightly sprinkle soil over the seeds to keep them in place (and to keep birds away if the box will be outside). That's about it! Put the trough in a light spot and keep the seeds moist for 7-14 days, until they sprout. Then, when the "lawn" gets high enough, you can trim it however you like with scissors, and even add props such as ceramic eggs or miniature garden tools. For kids, consider smaller, all-in-one kits sold at science and nature stores and nurseries (figure A). More Questions for Jessie:
Q: What's the ideal depth for a window box?
A: It depends on what you're growing. Bulbs need 6-8 inches, but a shallow container is no problem for something like rye grass.
Q: If I wanted this same look outside, what kind of seeds would I need to use?
A: Winter rye likes cooler temperatures, and Kentucky fescue can handle many different temperatures.
Q: Is the planting process the same for putting flowers in an outdoor window box?
A: The flowers will need to go deeper than the rye grass seeds, because their toot balls must be covered by soil. If you're planting flower seeds, follow the depth suggested on the package. Web site resources for Rye Grass Window Box: Window Box from HGTV.Com Window Boxes from HGTV.Com Books: Creative Window Boxes
by Stephanie Donaldson
ISBN: 0754808157
Lorenz Books
27 West 20th St.
New York, NY 10011
Phone: 800-354-9657
Fax: 212-807-6813
Web site: www.lorenzbooks.com Container Gardening: Inspirational Ideas and Projects For Garden Pots, Baskets and Boxes
by Stephanie Donaldson
ISBN: 0754805719
Lorenz Books
27 West 20th St.
New York, NY 10011
Phone: 800-354-9657
Fax: 212-807-6813
Web site: www.lorenzbooks.com
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